Degree Date

6-2023

Document Type

Dissertation - NLU Access

Degree Name

Ph.D. Doctor of Philosophy

Academic Discipline

Community Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Bradley Olson

Second Advisor

Dr. Tiffeny Jimenez

Third Advisor

Dr. Judah Viola

Abstract

This study explores the manifestation of regenerative principles amongst Egyptian social enterprises. An emergent design approach was adopted, whereby the focus of the study, and the concepts being explored, evolved and emerged as data was being collected. As demonstrated in the results section, the focus and final output of the work changed from being a technically oriented solution into a framework for reflecting around the transformation of companies from a regenerative lens. A series of semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted. Discussion topics included describing the journey of the founder of the social enterprise, the mandate and the history of the organization that they created the rationale behind its design and introduction, key pain points during implementation, key outcomes and moments of pride, and governance and management practices and approaches. Results indicated the emergence of a paradoxical spectrum between destruction and regeneration, which can manifest amongst founders and within their organizations. Regenerative and life-affirming practices included adopting the role of facilitator as opposed to instructor or egoic leader, creating nurturing relationships and diverse cultures, consistent communication with stakeholders, clear accountability structures, reliance on both intellect and intuition, as well as action and reflection, amongst other practices. The way forward is focused on the creation of a facilitated experience to enable founders and their teams to reflect on their approaches to social change, leadership, and in turn capacity to create deep-rooted and systemic changes within society.

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